Teeth-whitening products work by breaking down complex stains to make teeth appear brighter and whiter.
Overuse or misuse of teeth-whitening products can cause sensitivity, gum irritation, and other side effects.
Custom-fitted trays and in-office treatments are the safest and most effective ways to whiten teeth. ADA-approved over-the-counter toothpastes, gels, and strips are more affordable and convenient options.
The market for teeth-whitening products has exploded in recent years. And it’s tough to figure out which products are safe and effective.
You may be looking to remove years of surface stains from red wine and coffee. Or maybe you just want to brighten up your smile. In either case, you'll first need to know if teeth whitening is safe for you and which option is most appropriate.
How do teeth-whitening products work?
Your teeth have molecules on them that reflect light. This is what gives off the color of your teeth when you smile. The more complex these molecules are, the more light they reflect. And this increase in light reflection can cause your teeth to appear stained or discolored.
Hydrogen peroxide and carbamide peroxide are the two most common active ingredients in teeth-whitening products. They both work by breaking down the complex staining molecules, so you can have a brighter and whiter smile.
Is teeth whitening safe?
Teeth whitening is safe if done by a dental professional or if you use products that are approved by the American Dental Association (ADA). Having the ADA Seal of Acceptance on an over-the-counter whitening product ensures that it’s safe and effective.
However, like any cosmetic procedure, teeth whitening has potential side effects. Overuse or misuse of whitening products can lead to damage to your teeth and gums, sensitivity, and other problems.
The most common side effect of teeth whitening is increased sensitivity of the teeth and gums. This is due to the active ingredients irritating the nerves and blood vessels inside of your teeth. In some cases, this sensitivity can last for several days. Fortunately, there are many ways you can manage sensitivity if it does occur.
Other potential side effects of teeth whitening include:
Gum irritation and discoloration
Changes in the color of existing fillings
An uneven whitening effect
It’s important to stop the treatment and speak with your dentist if you experience any discomfort or side effects from whitening. They can help guide you on the next steps you should take.
What are the 4 safest ways to whiten your teeth?
There are many ways to whiten your teeth. You may decide to try an at-home treatment or allow a dental professional to decide the best treatment for you. Either way, it’s important to remember that there are pros and cons to each treatment. Here are four options for you to consider.
1. Over-the-counter whitening toothpastes and gels
Whitening toothpastes and gels are a simple way to make your smile brighter. Most whitening toothpastes have abrasives in them (like baking soda and silica) to remove surface stains. However, whitening toothpaste alone won’t make your teeth many shades whiter. And the abrasiveness of the ingredients could also cause tooth sensitivity.
Whitening gels have hydrogen peroxide, which helps to break down stains. The challenge with gels is keeping them in place. Your lip can sometimes wipe the gel away after it’s been applied.
2. Whitening strips
Whitening strips are a convenient and affordable option for at-home whitening. Most strips are coated with a whitening gel containing peroxide. The physical strip helps keep the gel on the teeth for the correct amount of time.
But the strips may not fit your teeth well and may irritate your gums. Using the strips too much can also make your teeth sensitive.
3. Custom-fitted whitening trays
Your dentist may recommend a custom-fit whitening tray made from a mold of your teeth. The trays are filled with whitening gel and worn for a recommended amount of time each day. You can repeat this until the desirable shade is accomplished. You’ll usually see noticeable results in a matter of weeks.
Your dentist will most likely use a higher-strength whitening agent with this method compared to an over-the-counter whitening product.
4. In-office blue whitening treatment
In-office whitening treatments use a blue LED light. They are supervised by a dentist. This is considered one of the safest and most effective ways to whiten your teeth.
During a whitening session, the dentist will apply a gel to your teeth containing a high concentration of peroxide. A blue LED light is used to activate the gel. The light will be directed onto your teeth for about 15 to 20 minutes. The dentist will then apply a new layer of gel and direct the light onto your teeth for an additional 15 to 20 minutes. This process is typically repeated three to four times until the desired level of whitening is achieved.
Who should not whiten their teeth?
There isn’t much safety data on teeth whitening for pregnant or breastfeeding women. And these groups are more likely to have inflamed gums and sensitivity after whitening due to hormonal changes during pregnancy.
Children under the age of 16 also shouldn’t use teeth whiteners without the guidance of a dentist. This is to ensure that the whitening is done safely and effectively.
Other people who shouldn’t use teeth-whitening products include those who have:
Sensitive teeth or gums
Gum disease
Cavities or other dental problems
People with these dental issues may have increased sensitivity or adverse effects when using teeth-whitening products. Consult your dentist for further guidance on teeth whitening if you fall into one of these categories.
Should you consult a dentist before whitening your teeth?
Yes. It’s always a good idea to consult a dentist before beginning any teeth-whitening treatment. Your dentist can evaluate your dental health and determine if whitening is safe for you. They can also recommend the best whitening products or treatments for your needs. That way, you can avoid potential problems or side effects.
The bottom line
Teeth whitening can be an effective way to help you achieve the smile of your dreams. However, it’s possible to have side effects from whitening products, especially if they’re misused. Follow instructions carefully and consult with a dentist before beginning any treatment. By taking these precautions, you can enjoy a beautiful, healthy smile for years to come.
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Overuse or misuse of teeth-whitening products can cause sensitivity, gum irritation, and other side effects. Custom-fitted trays and in-office treatments are the safest and most effective ways to whiten teeth. ADA-approved over-the-counter toothpastes, gels, and strips are more affordable and convenient options.
For the safest and most effective at-home teeth whitening method, the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry (AACD) recommends you use custom-fitted trays supplied by your dentist.
Opalescence is also a favorite brand of dentists, particularly Dr. Velayo. “More clinical studies, articles, and reviews have been published on Opalescence whitening than any other professional whitening brand. It's part of the reason why it's so highly trusted,” she says.
In-office whitening is highly effective, safe, and long-lasting. But it's more expensive than over-the-counter options, and often isn't covered by dental insurance. Ask your dentist for a cost estimate before committing to teeth whitening.
We can put your mind at rest and assure you that your teeth are not damaged during whitening administered by our dentists or when you follow the guidelines for at-home products. Whitening gels will not damage your tooth enamel. Enamel is the hardest tissue in your entire body and consists of tiny tubules.
While using peroxide to bleach your teeth isn't harmful, it should be limited because it can soften your enamel over time. If you're worried about peroxide use, Lumineux Teeth Whitening Strips is peroxide-free, using essential oils instead of more standard chemicals to whiten teeth.
If You Want Safe Teeth Whitening Treatments, Visit Your Dentist. If you don't like the uncertainty that comes with using an over-the-counter teeth whitening product, you would be better off visiting the dentist for professional teeth whitening. All teeth whitening products that dentist use are subject to FDA approval.
One of the most common side effects is tooth sensitivity, which can occur during or after treatment. Overuse or misuse of teeth whitening products can also lead to enamel damage, gum irritation, and discoloration. Additionally, some types of tooth discoloration may not respond well to teeth whitening treatments.
2. Can yellow teeth be bleached? Yellow teeth can be completely whitened with teeth whitening technologies at the dentist or at home. Depending on the status of your yellow teeth as well as your needs, the doctor will advise and prescribe the appropriate method.
Laser Teeth Whitening. Currently, the preferred choice of tooth-whitening treatment is Philips' Zoom! laser teeth whitening. For laser teeth whitening, a patient will typically come in for an hour-long session and then use formulated take-home teeth-whitening trays for lasting results.
You may not be a candidate for teeth whitening. If you are allergic to peroxide, you will not be able to have your teeth whitened, since peroxide is the active ingredient in whitening systems. If you have a lot of fillings, dental bonding or crowns, you may not be a candidate for dental whitening.
“Even with over-the-counter products, it is still recommended to see your dentist prior to starting a whitening procedure.” Dr. Scheier says. Those who are susceptible to sensitivity, either from gum recession or worn-down enamel, may inadvertently increase that sensitivity by using a teeth-whitening kit.
As a result, you may wonder if professional tooth whitening is worth the cost. Lots of patients are curious about in-office treatment and ask if it is really better than at-home options. The answer is a resounding yes. The most effective way to whiten teeth is with a professional in-office treatment.
Brown or gray teeth, or teeth striped or mottled from tetracycline or too much fluoride, may not whiten evenly when bleached. People with periodontal disease or particularly sensitive teeth may want to avoid chemical whitening techniques that can irritate tender gums.
The potential side effects of teeth whitening include teeth sensitivity, gum irritation, and ineffective results. However, most patients do not experience any notable side effects from professional teeth whitening, as the dentist can monitor the process and perform treatment in a way that minimizes risk.
While there are several risks associated with teeth whitening, the procedure is generally safe when done by a professional. They are trained and certified and know how to apply the bleaching agents properly and how long to leave them on your teeth.
Baking Soda: As long as you are careful to brush gently, baking soda can eliminate stains from the surface of your teeth without damaging them. Whitening Strips: Whitening strips mold to the shape of your teeth to whiten them. Whitening strips are both safe and effective.
Teeth-whitening products work by breaking down complex stains to make teeth appear brighter and whiter. Overuse or misuse of teeth-whitening products can cause sensitivity, gum irritation, and other side effects. Custom-fitted trays and in-office treatments are the safest and most effective ways to whiten teeth.
The two main ingredients used in home teeth whitening kits are hydrogen peroxide and carbamide peroxide, Dr. Cho says. “These are the most effective whitening ingredients,” she adds. The higher the percentage of these ingredients, the more whitening they will achieve, Mehta says.
Pregnant and lactating women. People who have restorations such as fillings, implants, crowns and dental bridges. Children under 16 years of age. Patients with periodontal disease, tooth decay, cavities and exposed roots.
Your dentist will advise you whether whitening is right for you. It may be that teeth whitening isn't suitable, for example if you have gum disease or crowns.
Custom-fitted trays and in-office treatments are the safest and most effective ways to whiten teeth. ADA-approved over-the-counter toothpastes, gels, and strips are more affordable and convenient options.
“Generally speaking, whitening kits are not harmful to your teeth,” explains Dr. Greg Scheier, DDS of Scheier Dental Group. “There are, however, potential temporary sensitivities, both in the teeth and gums, that may result from the use of both over-the-counter and dentist-administered whitening kits.” Dr.
But if you're nervous about the pain, all of the dentists I consulted said professional whitening is the way to go — and it's not just because they want your money. The newest professional treatments feature desensitizing agents and a neutral-pH bleach that minimizes “zingers,” the electric-shock pain unique to teeth.
Crest 3D White Whitestrips contains hydrogen peroxide, the same enamel-safe ingredient dentists use for tooth whitening. Extensive testing has shown the product to be safe when used as directed.
Introduction: My name is Dr. Pierre Goyette, I am a enchanting, powerful, jolly, rich, graceful, colorful, zany person who loves writing and wants to share my knowledge and understanding with you.
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